Neighborhood Traffic Safety & Calming

The City of Sonoma is committed to creating safer, more livable neighborhoods through the implementation of its Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP). This community-driven program outlines strategies to address speeding, cut-through traffic, and other safety concerns on residential streets. 

Whether you’re interested in learning about potential traffic calming solutions or want to report a hazardous traffic condition in your neighborhood, this page is your starting point. 

Submit a Traffic Hazard Report

The City of Sonoma’s Traffic Hazard Reporting Form allows residents to share concerns about speeding, cut-through traffic, or other safety issues in their neighborhood. Submissions help City staff and the Traffic Safety Committee evaluate potential solutions through the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program.

While anyone can submit a report, including names of other residents who share your concern helps demonstrate that the issue affects the broader neighborhood and not just one household. This information is not required, but stronger community support will be considered during the review process. You can add supporter information directly in the form or upload an additional list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP)?

The NTCP is a structured program designed to help the City and residents work together to reduce speeding and improve traffic safety in neighborhoods. It provides a range of solutions—categorized by complexity and cost—to address concerns like speeding, cut-through traffic, and pedestrian safety.

How do I report a traffic safety concern in my neighborhood?

Start by completing the Traffic Hazard Reporting Form. Describe the issue, location, and include contact information from others affected. Submit it online or submit hard copy forms to the Public Works Department by email or drop it off at City Hall.

What happens after I submit a Traffic Hazard Reporting Form?

The Traffic Safety Committee will review your submission, and utilizing the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Plan, make a recommendation and determine whether the concern qualifies for Tier I (simple/low-cost), Tier II (moderate), or Tier III (complex) solutions. Staff may conduct additional studies and community outreach before identifying appropriate measures. Tier II and Tier III measures require additional engineering support, recommendations for these measures will be subject to additional meetings and review with the City’s Traffic Engineer and Public Safety Teams.

What kinds of solutions are available through the program? 

Solutions range from low-cost signage and striping to more involved improvements like speed feedback signs, curb extensions, or raised crosswalks. A full list is included in the Traffic Calming Program Guide (PDF). 

Will my neighborhood have to pay for any improvements? 

In most cases, the City funds traffic calming measures. However, the form does ask whether the neighborhood is willing to contribute. Voluntary contributions may help speed up implementation or support demonstration projects. 

How are projects prioritized? 

The City uses a scoring system based on criteria like speeding severity, crash history, proximity to schools, and pedestrian activity. This helps allocate limited resources to areas with the greatest need and impact. 

Can temporary measures be used to test a solution? 

Yes. In some cases, the City may pilot temporary treatments such as pop-up traffic circles or speed bumps to evaluate effectiveness before making a long-term investment. 

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